Expert's Rating

OVERALL

Price when reviewed

£109 inc VAT

The Touch M5370’s 16-megapixel resolution (matching the Fujifilm) is an improvement on the previous model’s 14-megapixel, but from the front at least this compact resembles your typical slim-profile, pocket-sized point-and-shoot. It’s the lightest compact on test and sports a 5x optical zoom lens that retracts within the body when switched off. On the top plate are a raised shutter-release button encircled by a lever for operating the 28mm-140mm equivalent lens. Recessed into the top strip is an on/off button, plus a dedicated video record button offering high-definition 1,280 x 720 pixels. See also Group test: what's the best compact camera?

At the back is where Kodak chooses to do things differently, however, offering up just two physical controls in playback and Easy Share buttons. The latter allows images to be earmarked for upload to Facebook (with friends already tagged), Twitter, YouTube or Kodak’s own online gallery. This process happens automatically when the camera is connected to your desktop. Obviously aimed at the younger user, the suggested price won’t break the bank at just over £100, which feels fair. Visit Group test: what's the best digital camera?

The lack of controls (and model name) alludes to the fact that operation is largely down to the prodding of a 3in, 230k-dot LCDtouchscreen. While the likes of Samsung and Sony also offer touchscreen compacts the Kodak M5370 is one of the least expensive exponents on the market. However, some screen icons are a little small and the top strip crowded, so small hands or deft finger work is required.

And if we take issue with one aspect of the camera it’s that it has sided with the tiny fingernail-sized microSD media, which anyone out of their teens will find small and fiddly to slot in or retrieve.

Kodak’s cheap and cheerful M5370 eschews physical buttons in favour of touchscreen controls, but images are a little soft.

Buying Advice:

Image wise, results are a little soft. Normally Kodak colours are bright and warm but on the Touch M5370 we found them subdued. For low-light photography, stay at ISO800 or below to avoid issues. Although it’s not as revolutionary as other cameras here – and delivering snapshot-type images – the Touch M5370 puts today’s technology in reach of those on a budget, although now that Kodak has filed for bankruptcy in the US, this could be the last Kodak camera you buy.

OUR VERDICT

Image wise, results are a little soft. Normally Kodak colours are bright and warm but on the Touch M5370 we found them subdued. For low-light photography, stay at ISO800 or below to avoid issues. Although it’s not as revolutionary as other cameras here – and delivering snapshot-type images – the Touch M5370 puts today’s technology in reach of those on a budget, although now that Kodak has filed for bankruptcy in the US, this could be the last Kodak camera you buy.